Reports of a Model 3 leasing program could be a bad sign for Tesla investors

Reports that Tesla might be starting a leasing program for its Model 3 sedan could be a bad sign for investors in the electric car maker, according to one analyst.

The timing of the reports could be a sign that the gradual expiration of federal tax credits for Tesla vehicles could be hitting demand for the sedan, said CFRA analyst Garrett Nelson in a note published Wednesday. The reduction in the tax credits began this year.

Tesla responded to a report from news site Electrek published on Tuesday saying the electric vehicle manufacturer is planning a leasing program, but that it has not finalized the dates when it will begin.

CEO Elon Musk also said on the company’s fourth-quarter earnings calls that Tesla might wait until later this year to start a program.

“We’ve been reluctant to introduce leasing on Model 3 because of its effect on GAAP financials,” Musk said on the call. “It is worth noting that demand to date is with zero leasing. Obviously, leasing is a way to improve demand, but it makes our financials looks worse. So we’re not wanting to introduce that right away. We’ll introduce it sometime later this year probably.”

Tesla already offers leases on its other models, and it is common for customers to lease vehicles in the premium end of the car market.

Several manufacturers are either already selling electric vehicles or planning to release new models in the next few years. Some are aimed at the higher end of the market, where Tesla’s vehicles are priced, especially the full-size Model S sedan and Model X SUV.

Musk billed the Model 3 as a relatively affordable electric car, and initially Tesla intended to sell them at a starting price of $35,000, much lower than the current price. Competitors are eyeing that end of the market as well.

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